The expansion of this year’s Speciality Food Festival is indicative of the strong market potential in the region.
The food service industry continues to be a key economic driver for the GCC, with market value predicted to reach AED 91 billion (US$ 25 billion) by 2018, according to PwC.
Growth in this sector has been fuelled by a more health conscious consumer, driving a desire both globally and regionally for specialist foods, such as organic and halal.
The organic industry has seen a surge in consumer interest, with the global retail value expected to reach US$ 52 billion by 2021, according to Euromonitor International. Regionally, the organic industry has been supported by government-led initiatives, with the UAE recently announcing its strategic goal to increase organic produce. There has also been significant growth in the global halal industry with halal food and lifestyle products predicted to value at AED 13.5 trillion (US$ 3.7 trillion) by 2019, according to the Global Islamic Economy Report.
The expansion of this year’s Speciality Food Festival is indicative of the strong market potential in the region. Taking place from 18-20 September 2017 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the show is and the ultimate platform for suppliers, importers and exporters of gourmet, artisan, halal and organic products. The three-day event, along with five other sector specific shows, takes place during the inaugural Dubai International Hospitality Week (DIHW).
The internationally recognised trade show continues to attract exhibitors from across the world, including for the first time, Cameroon, Netherlands, Taiwan and Thailand. It has also witnessed a growing participation from France, with a 30% increase in French exhibitors this year.
“The regional F&B sector is amongst the world’s most discerning, driving demand for speciality ingredients, new innovations and trend-spotting. This is the role that The Speciality Food Festival plays for chefs and speciality food retailers across the region, bringing the latest and best products to Dubai, in one convenient place,” said DWTC Senior Vice President, Exhibitions & Events Management Trixie LohMirmand.
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